teddy bear
/'tedi,beə/
Definition
Noun: A soft toy in the shape of a bear, typically made from plush fabric and stuffed with soft material, designed as a child's plaything or comfort object.
Usage
The word "teddy bear" is a countable noun. It refers specifically to the stuffed toy bear. It is commonly used as a direct object or subject in a sentence. * The little girl hugged her teddy bear tightly. * A worn teddy bear sat on the shelf. * He won a giant teddy bear at the fair.
Examples
- For many children, a teddy bear is their first and most cherished friend.
- She collected antique teddy bears from the early 1900s.
- The teddy bear's button eye was missing.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Significance: The term originates from the early 20th century, named after U.S. President Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt, following a famous cartoon depicting him sparing a bear cub on a hunting trip. This historical context is often cited but is not part of the word's everyday meaning.
- Figurative Use: In rare, informal contexts, "teddy bear" can describe a person who is large but gentle and lovable.
- Despite his intimidating size, he's a real teddy bear.
Variants and Related Words
- Teddy (noun): A common, informal shortening of "teddy bear."
- She took her teddy to bed every night.
- Stuffed animal / Stuffed toy (noun): The broader category of soft toys that includes teddy bears.
- Plush toy (noun): A synonym emphasizing the soft, furry fabric often used.
Synonyms
- Stuffed bear
- Plush bear
- Cuddly toy (broader term)
Idioms
- To be someone's teddy bear: To be a source of great comfort and emotional support for someone, much like the toy.
- During hard times, he was her rock, her teddy bear.
Noun
-
plaything consisting of a child's toy bear (usually plush and stuffed with soft materials)
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